Building a Giant

Montirex 2019-2024 | From a single problem sketch to JD Sports' legendary sales of hundreds of millions.

A Case Study by MontForge (formerly AIKA)

"The Struggle" - A Turning Point in 2019

The growing pains of starting out: when creativity clashes with technological barriers

When Thomas first took over this project in 2019, it was called "MONTAGA."

No matter how good the design concept, if the final product fails to resonate with consumers, it's all for naught. The initial sample garments used traditional silkscreen printing, resulting in a dull, heavy look that completely failed to capture the "functionality" of modern sportswear. Furthermore, the patterns weren't optimized for high-intensity exercise, causing the project to stall.

We Needed to Change.

2019, The early days of "MONTAGA".

"The Turning Point" - A Conversation in the Factory

Thomas's decision: Face-to-face, redefining standards

To break down the barriers of email communication, Thomas invited the brand representatives to visit the factory directly. Standing beside the production line, instead of compromising, we proposed a bold technological innovation: abandoning screen printing and fully adopting luminous heat transfer printing.

Traditional Screen Printing: Glowing Heat Transfer

A bold attempt in craftsmanship

Standard Version: Reshaping the Sports Silhouette

A profound understanding of sportswear patterns

Pattern Reshaping

On-site pattern adjustments established a slim-fit athletic cut.

Technological Innovation

Introducing reflective technology, addressing a key pain point in British street culture.

Deep Trust

From this day forward, we are no longer a contract manufacturer, but a technology partner.

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"The Result" - Market Boom

Montirex

Joining JD Sports and Footasylum

Annual Sales Growth from $100 to $120 million+ Joined JD Sports in 2023: 5-Year Strategic Partnership with Zero Supply Disruptions
Joined Footasylum in 2020

“Montirex’s success proves one thing: when exceptional manufacturing meets the right brand, it can create market miracles. Today, AIKA (now MontForge) has successfully helped numerous brands gain access to top retailers.”

"The Evolution" - Montforge Makes Its Debut

In order to successfully
replicate, we evolved

Montirex's story is not only a victory for its clients, but also a core belief we want to convey: manufacturing is the engine of brand growth. To standardize this "incubation capability," we upgraded AIKA to MontForge. We are committed to providing global brands with integrated solutions based on "innovation + functionality + quality."

Innovation

Proactive research and development of cutting-edge fabrics

Function

Development of ergonomic sports patterns

Quality

The factory standards here are JD Sports' warehousing standards.

"Opening a New Chapter"

Montirex is our past; your brand is our future. Whether you are a startup or an established brand seeking a breakthrough, the Thomas and MontForge team is ready.Book Strategy Call